A severe vegetable shortage in the future

Trade union representatives point out that due to the severe dry weather conditions prevailing across the island and the existing fertilizer shortage, there is a risk of a severe vegetable shortage in the future.

C. A. Siriwardhana, Chairman of the Dambulla Economic Centre Traders' Association, speaking to the media, stated that the daily quantity of vegetables received at the centre has decreased by approximately 200,000 kilograms in recent days. Accordingly, the previous daily supply of 600,000 kilograms of vegetables has now been limited to 400,000 kilograms.

Given the current situation, a kilogram of bell peppers (maalu miris) in the market is priced between Rs. 500 and Rs. 550, while a kilogram of carrots sells for between Rs. 230 and Rs. 250. It is also reported that a kilogram of eggplant sells for Rs. 350, a kilogram of drumsticks for between Rs. 150 and Rs. 200, and a kilogram of pumpkin for Rs. 115 in the market.

Meanwhile, S. M. Upasena, former chairman of the Manning Market Traders' Association, stated that due to the rapid decline in water levels in tanks and reservoirs caused by the prevailing dry weather, farmers are reluctant to cultivate vegetables.

However, he also mentioned that due to the limited ability of people to use their money, the demand for even essential goods has fallen, so there is no immediate trend for vegetable prices to rise further. Nevertheless, he further warns that due to the inability to maintain additional stocks of vegetables, this situation poses a risk of becoming a severe vegetable crisis in the future.